Calgary fire shuts down provincial courthouses and other services

An underground fire at an electrical substation has caused a loss of electricity in parts of downtown Calgary leaving thousands without power.

The affected area includes both residential and commercial buildings. Power is also out at the Government of Alberta’s McDougall Centre, AMEC Building, JJ Bowlen, and Calgary Court Centre, causing impacts to court operations. Operations at these buildings will be impacted until power is fully restored.

“The province is offering support to the City of Calgary in its time of need. Our Alberta Emergency Management Agency is assisting with logistics coordination and will continue this work until power is restored.”

Jim Prentice, Premier

At the request of the City of Calgary, AEMA worked with the Government of Canada’s Operation Centre and the Department of National Defense to secure the Mewata Armoury at 801-11th Street as a Registration and Information Centre to process any self-evacuated residents from the affected area before finding alternative accommodations.

“We are in close contact with Mayor Nenshi and the Calgary Emergency Management Agency. We encourage Calgarians to listen closely to local authorities who have the most up-to-date information.”

Diana McQueen, Minister of Municipal Affairs

The Calgary Courts Centre will be closed on October 14, 15 and 16. Albertans with matters at the court centre scheduled on those days are urged to visit the Alberta Courts website.